The Widow's Broom
By Chris Van Allsburg
The Story
When a witch crashes into her garden, a widow is left with an extraordinary broom that sweeps floors and keeps her company — but suspicious neighbors decide the broom is wicked and demand she give it up.
Why It's Special
For the kid who roots for the misunderstood outsider, this is a quietly eerie story about loyalty to something everyone else fears.
- Big idea: Kindness and fear look at the same thing and see something completely different.
- Vibes: Hushed, atmospheric, a little haunting — autumn dusk in book form.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy spooky stories that aren't too scary
- are drawn to moody, detailed illustrations
- are working on understanding that different doesn't mean dangerous
- like quiet, atmospheric read-alouds around Halloween
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think Minna Shaw wanted to keep the broom even after her neighbors got scared of it?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the broom felt when the neighbors decided it was evil?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever been afraid of something just because it looked strange or different?
- Imagination: If a witch's broom landed in your garden, what would you want it to help you do?
- Perspective-taking: Why do you think Minna trusted the broom when her neighbors didn't?
